Processional Leaders: More than Leaders, We Are Set Apart

Leadership is not just about guiding others; it’s about breaking away from the norm and leading with purpose. In life, we often find ourselves in circles, but true leaders know how to step out and blaze a trail. Today, let’s explore the concept of processional leaders and what it means to be set apart.

Journey Back to the Roots

Let’s rewind to 1970, a time when I had just returned from service in Vietnam. I found myself behind the wheel of a 1966 Toronado, a car that was the epitome of cool back in the day. Driving down I-35 into Austin, I felt a sense of freedom and excitement. But little did I know, the gas gauge was broken, and I soon found myself stranded.

Photo by Art Lasovsky on Unsplash

In that moment of need, a stranger in a van pulled over to help. With long hair and a laid-back vibe, he introduced himself as Michael Murphy, a musician who was just beginning to make waves in the music industry. At that time, I had no idea who he was, but he was on the brink of fame with his hit song “Wildfire.” This chance encounter was a reminder that sometimes, help comes from the most unexpected places.

A Lesson from the State Hospital

Fast forward to my first real job with Kirby Foods. I had an interesting boss named Henry Martinez, who had a habit of falling asleep during our meetings. One day, while making my rounds at the state hospital, I witnessed a rather humorous incident. Henry was napping in the truck when a patient approached him, asking for money. The interaction was comical, yet it illustrated a profound truth: if you want something, you have to keep knocking, sometimes even literally.

Photo by Martha Dominguez de Gouveia on Unsplash

This story, while lighthearted, serves as a metaphor for persistence. It’s a reminder that in both leadership and life, we must be willing to seek out what we need, no matter how awkward the situation may be.

The Concept of Processional Leaders

Now, let’s dive into what it truly means to be a processional leader. The term comes from a fascinating experiment conducted by John Henry Fabre, a French naturalist, in the 1880s. He studied caterpillars, specifically their tendency to follow one another in a line. In one experiment, he placed them around a flower pot with their favorite food in the center. Instead of going directly for the food, they walked in circles for days, ultimately dying of starvation.

Photo by Quino Al on Unsplash

This experiment illustrates a critical point: if you’re stuck in a circle, you’re not going to thrive. As leaders, we must break away from the norm and lead others to the resources they need to survive and thrive. Just like the caterpillars that followed the leader blindly, we must be cautious not to follow the crowd without questioning the path we’re on.

Trailblazers in Leadership

Leadership is about being set apart. It’s about understanding that we are all called to lead in different capacities, whether as teachers, entrepreneurs, or in our communities. Jesus exemplified this when he called his disciples, promising to make them fishers of men. He didn’t just want followers; he wanted leaders who would take the initiative and make an impact.

Photo by Gift Habeshaw on Unsplash

Matthew 4:18 captures this beautifully: “Come, follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” This call is not just for pastors or church leaders; it’s a universal invitation to everyone willing to step out and lead in their own right.

The Role of the Holy Spirit

In today’s world, we have the Holy Spirit guiding us, empowering us to step out of our comfort zones and embrace our calling. It’s essential to recognize that this anointing is what sets us apart. Whether you’re a mechanic, a teacher, or in any profession, the Spirit of the Lord rests upon you, giving you the strength to lead and proclaim the good news.

Photo by Ashley Batz on Unsplash

As I reflect on my journey, I remember my initial reluctance to embrace a leadership role in ministry. I was a businessman, content to solve problems and support churches financially. But God had other plans, and eventually, I found myself stepping into the role of a leader, driven by a desire to serve others and share the message of hope.

Becoming a Trailblazer

To be a processional leader, you must be willing to blaze a trail. This means not only following Christ but also leading others to Him. It’s about being proactive, seeking opportunities to serve, and being the first to step out in faith. Just as the caterpillar that broke away from the circle led the others to the food, we too can lead others to nourishment—spiritually and physically.

Photo by Ryan Chia on Unsplash

In Luke 4:18, Jesus proclaims, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor.” As leaders, we are called to do the same. We must recognize the needs around us and take action to meet them. This is the essence of leadership—serving others and leading them toward hope and healing.

Facing Challenges as Leaders

Being a leader is not without its challenges. There will be times when you face opposition, misunderstandings, and even ridicule. But remember, as Jesus faced challenges, so will we. In Luke 5:17, we see Jesus teaching amidst a crowd of skeptics, yet He remained steadfast in His purpose.

Photo by Edward Cisneros on Unsplash

When faced with challenges, true leaders find a way. They don’t back down or give up; they push forward. The story of the friends who tore off the roof to bring the paralyzed man to Jesus exemplifies this determination. They were not deterred by obstacles; they found a way to reach their goal. This is the mindset of a trailblazer—one who is relentless in their pursuit of helping others.

Conclusion: Embrace Your Calling as a Leader

As we wrap up, I want to encourage each of you to embrace your role as a processional leader. Whether in your workplace, community, or church, step out and lead with purpose. Remember that you are set apart for a reason. The world needs leaders who are willing to break away from the norm and make a difference.

Photo by Akshar Dave🌻 on Unsplash

So, let’s go out there and be the trailblazers we are called to be. Let’s lead with conviction, serve with love, and share the good news with those around us. Together, we can make an impact and bring hope to a world that desperately needs it.